Tampa | Izakaya

🔍Tori Bar 📍 442 W Grand Central Ave #190, Tampa, FL 33606 As a sister branch of Izakaya, Tori Bar follows the same aesthetic in décor but feels a bit more lively yet quietly cozy—thanks to the larger bar area, sleek display cases, and more booth seating 🏮 We went around 5 PM during Happy Hour. It wasn’t crowded yet, and there were still parking spots available—anyone who’s been to the original location knows how precious that is 😭 The menu has some differences compared to the original spot, though I haven’t done a full comparison yet. We started with shiso rangoon and chicken karaage—personally prefer the former 🍗 For yakitori, we got: Braised pork belly Lamb lollipop Wagyu Gizzard Heart Thigh with scallion Eggplant Pepper ...and more 🌶️ You can choose between salt or tare seasoning—tare has a richer flavor, but as a spice lover, I kinda wished I had some dry chili dip on hand 😂 There’s no skewer that a sprinkle of cumin and chili powder can’t fix. If one sprinkle isn’t enough, just add more 👌 Basically: Japanese yakitori with a Chinese twist 🍢 Overall, Tori Bar offers a great dining atmosphere and efficient service. So glad we don’t have to drive all the way to Orlando for this now 🎉 ⚠️ If you’re planning to visit, note that they’re not open for lunch and are closed on weekends. Hope this helps you avoid disappointment or a meh experience! Also, if you have any good food spots to recommend—please share! Thanks a bunch 🦀💖 #Tampa #TampaFood #FoodReview #WhatToEatInFlorida #Izakaya #RestaurantRecommendation